Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Florida Principle and Practice Licensure Practice Exam

What is the maximum diameter of a sphere that can pass through openings in floor or ground surfaces?

1. 2 inches

2. 1.5 inches

3. 1 inch

4. 1/2 inch

The correct answer is: 1/2 inch

The correct choice indicates that the maximum diameter of a sphere that can pass through openings in floor or ground surfaces is 1/2 inch. This dimension is critical in building codes, particularly in safety regulations regarding access and fall prevention. The rationale behind this specification is rooted in safety standards designed to prevent small children from falling through or getting stuck in openings, which are often associated with guardrails and stairways. Openings that exceed this diameter could pose a risk, allowing small items or individuals to fall through, potentially leading to injury. In terms of compliance, ensuring that openings do not exceed this maximum diameter is essential for meeting safety codes and providing public protection within buildings. This limit reflects a balance between structural integrity and human safety. Hence, it is important for building code administrators and inspectors to ensure that any openings in floor or ground surfaces adhere to this regulation.